Giants clash in fiery cup showdown

Mamello Rakotsoane

Lesotho football’s royalty clubs are set for a blockbuster showdown after a mouth-watering People’s Cup draw paired traditional rivals in high-stakes semi-finals of the annual competition.

The 2026 edition has pitted giants against each other in fixtures that promise intensity, rivalry and top-quality football as the competition reaches its climax.

Following a fiercely contested nationwide voting campaign, four of the country’s biggest clubs, Lioli FC, Matlama FC, Bantu FC and Lijabatho FC, have secured their places in the semi-finals, setting up a thrilling one-day knockout tournament.

The announcement was made at Bambatha Tsita Sports Arena by Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), in partnership with the Premier League Management Committee (PLMC) and the Sam Matekane Foundation (SMF), marking the end of weeks of fan-driven engagement.

Supporters once again played a decisive role, voting in large numbers to shape a line-up dominated by powerhouse teams with rich histories and strong followings.

Lioli FC topped the polls with 162,122 votes, narrowly ahead of Matlama FC with 156,038 votes. Bantu FC followed with 150,231 votes, while Lijabatho FC claimed the final spot with 139,118 votes.

The results have set up two compelling semi-final clashes. Lioli FC will face Lijabatho FC in the opening match, while Bantu FC take on long-time rivals Matlama FC in what is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter.

The matches will be played on April 25, 2026, at Bocheletsane Stadium, with the first semi-final kicking off at 09:00 and the second at 11:30. The winners will advance to the final later in the day at 15:00.

Beyond the fixtures, the tournament continues to grow in stature, with a sponsorship package worth M1.1 million. The winners will take home M400,000, while the runners-up will receive M200,000. Each losing semi-finalist will earn M100,000.

Speaking at the event, Mokhosi Mohapi outlined a broader vision to strengthen local football and elevate clubs to compete internationally.

“To bring this vision to life, we are assessing teams both financially and through their performance on the pitch, this includes preparing clubs for major competitions such as the CAF Champions League, while also identifying top players who can strengthen national representation abroad,” he said.

He also confirmed that each participating team will receive M15,000 to assist with preparations and accommodation ahead of the matches in Mantšonyane.

Mohapi urged teams to compete with discipline and sportsmanship, while encouraging those who missed out to remain committed to future opportunities.

Matlama FC representative Moeketsi Khojane welcomed the draw, describing the journey to the final four as highly competitive.

“It has been a journey that required hard work and dedication from the beginning, some teams started strong, others fell behind and came back, but everything has unfolded as envisioned,” he said.

Khojane also called on supporters to turn out in large numbers to witness what promises to be a high-quality spectacle.

“Let us come out to Bocheletsane, support these matches, showcase our talent, and play with pride as we uplift and represent our nation,” he said.

Newsday

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